Taylor Swift has been the focus of media scrutiny and celebrity drama for years now. And, regardless of whether you’re a hardcore “Swiftie” or a complete hater of her music, there’s no denying she has been a successful artist.
Now, with her newest album Lover, which dropped on August 23, Swift has rearranged her style–stepping away from her rebellious and boldly self-aware album Reputation and returning to more of her upbeat and love-song centered roots.
This album was openly a shift in tone from her previous works, instead of serving as almost a sequel to her pop-centric 1989 album, full of clean rhythms and addictive beats. Lover combines these similar themes with colorful pastel tones and optimistic vibes that mirror her current state of being in love. Swift is very nifty, weaving deeper meanings into her positive lyrics–from political innuendos in “Miss Americana and the Heartbreak Prince” to the inspiring (but somewhat problematic) LGBTQ+ anthem “You Need to Calm Down”–she hasn’t been shy about her opinions and having a voice.
Overall, Swift tugs on the heartstrings of her devoted fans since her earliest eras, paying homage to her original hits through her nostalgic imagery across several of her tracks. Still, the “old” Taylor seems to be gone. Instead, she’s been replaced by a more confident, emotionally honest, and liberated self–prominent in all 18 songs (the highest number of tracks for any of her albums to date.)
Here is my list of 5 songs from Lover which are definitely worth a listen–or maybe a constant replay.
- “Daylight”
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“Daylight” is a very representative piece, a model for the entirety of the album as Swift’s outlooks and stylistic choices have changed. Its classic pop sound is very pleasing and uplifting, rounding out the preceding works as the final track of the album.
- “Cruel Summer”
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“Cruel Summer” might be my favorite track on the album. It’s cool and wispy, but a song that you could definitely blast in the car. Swift’s throaty yelling in the song is unexpected as well, offering a raw intensity to the party-esque nature of the song.
- “Lover”
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The album’s title track “Lover” offers long-time Swift fans a glimpse into her entertaining storytelling style, especially through the song’s music video. The soft beat is inviting and comforting, as the track is the start of many love songs and references to her significant other throughout the album.
- “The Man”
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This feminist anthem is closely aligned with Miley Cyrus’ “Mother’s Daughter” for songs inspiring women empowerment and highlighting the discrimination of women. Swift incorporates sheer ridicule of sexism and double standards while still offering a cheerful and catchy beat. (In other words, an ideal song.)
- “False God”
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Out of all 18 tracks on the album, this is the one that sticks in my head the most–and for good reason, too. The background saxophone combined with the subdued tones of Swift’s voice creates a sensual and creative sound that will make you listen to it over and over.